Job Description & Details
The networking landscape is exploding with cloud‑native data‑center designs, and companies are racing to modernize their infrastructure. An L3 Network Engineer who masters routing, switching, and security is now a strategic asset. This contract role in Los Angeles offers you a chance to apply high‑level skills on cutting‑edge platforms while earning a premium rate.
Job Summary
We are seeking a seasoned Network Engineer (Level 3) to design, implement, and troubleshoot complex data‑center networks. The role focuses on Cisco, Aruba, and Palo Alto environments, handling BGP‑EVPN, VXLAN, multicast, and firewall policies in a spine‑leaf architecture. You will also manage DNS/DHCP services via Infoblox and support secure access using Aruba ClearPass.
Top 3 Critical Skills Table
| Skill | Why it's critical | Mastery Level |
|---|---|---|
| Routing & Switching (BGP, EVPN, VXLAN) | Core of data‑center traffic engineering and scalability | Senior |
| Cisco/Aruba/Palo Alto Firewall Administration | Protects the network perimeter and enforces policy across multiple zones | Senior |
| Data‑Center Architecture (Spine‑Leaf, Multicast, VRF) | Enables high‑performance, low‑latency connectivity for modern workloads | Senior |
Interview Preparation
- Explain how BGP EVPN works in a spine‑leaf design. What the interviewer is looking for: Understanding of control‑plane separation, MAC‑IP advertisement, and loop‑free routing.
- Walk me through configuring a Palo Alto firewall for site‑to‑site VPN. What the interviewer is looking for: Hands‑on knowledge of tunnel interfaces, IKE/IPsec phases, and security policies.
- How would you troubleshoot a multicast routing issue in a VRF environment? What the interviewer is looking for: Methodical approach using IGMP snooping, PIM, and verification commands.
- Describe the steps to integrate Infoblox DNS/DHCP with Cisco ASA. What the interviewer is looking for: Experience with DNS forwarding, DHCP relay, and secure zone configurations.
- What are the benefits of using Aruba ClearPass in a wireless network? What the interviewer is looking for: Insight into role‑based access control, device profiling, and compliance enforcement.
Resume Optimization
- CCNA
- CCNP
- Cisco ASA
- Palo Alto firewalls
- Aruba wireless
- BGP EVPN
- VXLAN
- Multicast routing
- Infoblox DNS/DHCP
- Spine‑leaf architecture
Application Strategy
When you email the recruiter, start with a brief greeting, attach your resume, and clearly highlight your top skills. Make sure to mention related skills you possess, such as BGP‑EVPN, Palo Alto firewall configuration, and spine‑leaf data‑center design. Reference a recent project where you implemented these technologies and quantify the impact (e.g., reduced latency by 30%).
Career Roadmap
| Current Role | Typical Experience | Core Focus | Next Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| Network Engineer L3 | 5‑7 years in routing, switching, security | Advanced data‑center design & automation | Senior Network Engineer |
| Senior Network Engineer | 8‑10 years, lead projects, mentor junior staff | End‑to‑end architecture, cross‑team integration | Network Architect |
| Network Architect | 10‑12 years, strategic planning, vendor management | Enterprise‑wide network strategy, cloud integration | Director of Network Engineering |
| Director of Network Engineering | 12+ years, budget & people leadership | Organizational network vision, innovation | VP of Infrastructure |